Custom Design

It’s an odd feeling to look at a picture of the Miu Miu Patent Ruffle Bag and get a strong sense that you’ve seen the bag (or one like it) somewhere before. Surely a black patent satchel with girlish leather ruffles in pink and purple has to have its own unique place in the luxury handbag market, right? Well, not really.

It took me a while to figure out exactly what this Miu Miu reminded me of, but I finally found it: the Marc Jacobs Vortex Tote. The material is regular leather instead of patent, but the black body topped with pink and purple ruffles is similar enough for my feeble little brain to conflate the two. It’s unlikely that the Miu Miu designers were inspired by the Marc Jacobs bag, but there are enough similarities to give us all a nice reminder that even a very quirky bag probably resembles something else out there on the mass market. There is nothing new under the sun, as they say.

The subject of whether or not I like the bag is a whole ‘nother kettle of fish. I don’t like it as it is in this photo – it looks a bit bloated and busy. Minus the stuffing and the detachable shoulder strap, though, it’s a fun take on the “lady scale” bags that have become so popular this season. Instead of going very proper and feminine with the design, as has been the choice of most designers, Miu Miu went young and girly instead. As a result, their entire Fall collection (and this bag) seems fresh and different. This design may not be practical for the average woman, but I bet we’ll see at least one editor or stylist toting it during Fashion Week. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $1050.

Original post by Amanda Mull

Miu Miu’s heralded Fall 2010 collection is best described as aggressively girly, which may or may not be a positive thing, depending on your personal style. I normally wouldn’t describe myself in such terms, but nevertheless, the collection has captivated me anyway. There’s an elegance and sharpness to it that is totally captivating.

Parameters for picking bags are different than those for picking clothes, however. A gamine blouse or printed skirt may be fun seasonal purchases, but most accessories customers want their bags to go the distance for more than a couple of months of wear. In trying to decide between the Miu Miu Runway Flower Detail Bag and the Miu Miu Vitello Turnlock Satchel, I can’t help but ask myself if personality or functionality is more important in a bag purchase. The answer will vary by personal style, of course, but these two bags have me particularly torn. Do you go with something very unique that you’ll probably only carry for a season, or a toned-town version with only a few special details that you could carry for a long time?

Handy-dandy poll after the jump, plus larger photos and purchasing information. I’m leaning toward the plain leather bag, although I’d love a pair of Miu Miu flats with similar flower details.

Miu Miu Runway Flower Bag, $1695 via Bergdorf Goodman. (Note: this bag is not leather.)

Miu Miu Vitello Turnlock Satchel, $1495 via Bergdorf Goodman.

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post’s poll.

Original post by Amanda Mull

Suede, I have a serious love hate relationship with you. The soft texture always lures me in and completely reminds me of fall and winter. And I am a girl who truly loves fall and winter. But then there is the problem with upkeep and cleaning. Because of its texture and open pores, suede both gets dirty and absorbs liquids quickly and easily. A darker suede color like brown is a good choice, since it will not show wear or dirt as quickly as lighter suede colors. And because I have a thing for chocolate (the food and color), this Miu Miu bag is calling my name.

I rarely find myself drawn to chocolate brown bags, but the Miu Miu Horn-Strap Suede Tote is worth a gander.

I do like a deed chocolate brown color. I just rarely find myself buying it. And by rarely, I mean close to never (my closet and bag collection is devoid of a deep brown). But I feel like a dark brown color would suit my collection and me well. This Miu Miu Tote is a great option for a slight equestrian touch, with a fall feel, with a scholarly finish.

The bag features a suede body with leather accents. I really like that the leather touches are not tiny, but stand out at all corners of the bag, along with linear around the bag’s design. The two leather handles feature buckles with adjustable length options. The chain strap is removable and luxe, with a chain strap and horn embellishment. The entire feel fuses equestrian with a touch of military (khaki green cotton lining on the inside). I am digging the vibe of this bag. Buy through Net-A-Porter for $1,395.

It always seems that people tend to opt for brown hues or black hues: which category do you fit into?

Original post by Megs Mahoney Dusil

Why must Miu Miu torture me so? Their Fall/Winter 2010 collection is one of the best that I’ve seen in quite a while, and that’s in no small part because of the line’s beautifully textured and detailed handbags. I’ve always loved the aesthetic of Prada’s little sister brand, and a handbag like the Miu Miu Quilted Front Lock Satchel only makes me love it more.

This picture absolutely doesn’t do any justice to the intricate chevron quilting that covers the majority of the satchel. It’s rich, touchable and utterly unique in a world where almost every quilted handbag uses simple diamonds instead of something more daring.

In its infinite charity, Miu Miu didn’t just limit this beautiful quilting to this particular bag – as more fall bags come out, it will be seen in clutches, totes and shoulder bags as well (and it has been used from time to time by the brand in the past), but this bag is my absolute favorite example. Over time it will slouch perfectly, accenting the quality of the quilted leather even more. Pre-order via Bergdorf Goodman for $1990.

Original post by Amanda Mull

As much as fringe handbags continue to come in style and then back in style, I am always sitting on the fence between strongly disliking them and having a slight bit of curiosity towards them. Sure, some designers are able to create a much more subdued fringe bag, while others are all about fringe coming from every orifice of the bag and dragging down to the floor. I prefer the first option: fringe within reason. And you know who may have created fringe within reason fairly well? Miu Miu.

After seeing the Miu Miu Leather Fringe Hobo Bag pop up on Monday at Net A Porter, a few of you expressed your love of the bag. To be honest it was not the first bag that caught my eye, but I took a second look and can understand the fascination with the bag.

This bag is sporting fringe, even more fringe than I typically prefer, but there is something about the neutral leather color and classic shape of the bag paired with the fringe that makes it work. The nude leather hobo is paired with gold-tone hardware. The fold-over flap and shape of the bag itself is very Miu Miu. Another added touch that I appreciate is the zip-pull pocket at the back of the bag.

And then there is the leather fringed trim. I can’t tell you exactly how long it is, but what I can tell you is the bag is a larger hobo bag (as seen on the model, and the fringe is not dainty whatsoever. There is also an optional long strap (also shown on the model) which I quite like. This is a statement bag that ties in a toned down color and body style with amped up fashion from the fringe detail. Buy via Net-A-Porter for $1,695.

Original post by Megs Mahoney Dusil

I found the Miu Miu store that I not only want to visit but also feel like I would live a perfectly happy life if I could move into it. Miu Miu opened up their Forte dei Marmi Store which is in a sea town that is part of northern Tuscany. Famous residents of the town include Andrea Bocelli and Giorgio Armani along with Paola Ruffo di Calabria, Queen of the Belgians who was born there.

Miu Miu is planning to gain more brand awareness and plans to open 13 more stores worldwide by the end of the year, 4 of which will be in Italy. This store in Forte Dei Marmi is on Via Carducci and was designed by architect Roberto Baciocchi. Design elements include interior passages of walls upholstered in damask offset by mirrors and screens. The layout is supposed to be casual yet feminine and elegant. Also, natural features are interspersed with palm and iroko wood. To top it all off, there is a garden with benches and cushions.

Italy is one of my favorite countries I have ever visited and Tuscany is still on my to-do list. Now I have added this Miu Miu store, which seems to mix quaint with serene and luxurious. If any of you ever make it to this Miu Miu location, please do let me know if it is as amazing as it sounds and looks!

Original post by Megs Mahoney Dusil

Leopard print has obviously been around forever and the trend has been building for some time, but as far as handbags go, the look is about to reach critical mass. Since some people are apprehensive of the pattern and unsure of how it could fit into their wardrobes, we’ve taken the liberty of styling the Dolce & Gabbana Miss Charles Leopard Print Bag for both night and day to demonstrate leopard’s versatility.

This bag is particularly appropriate because of its petite size and mix of hardware – it can be paired with silver or gold and used night or day. Leopard provides an interesting opportunity to create visual interest through mixing textures because multiple attention-grabbing colors would compete with the pattern, and I particularly love how it looks with dark pinks and metallic touches. Details for each piece are after the jump.

The Bag

Dolce & Gabbana Miss Charles Leopard Print Bag: You can’t really have a conversation about modern leopard print without talking about Dolce & Gabbana, can you? As with most of fall’s leopard looks, this bag is made of printed haircalf, which I love to combine with other interesting textures in neutral colors, plus a pop of brightness – the pop should be bigger for nighttime looks. Buy through Nordstrom for $1550.

Casual

Burberry Prorsum Military Belted Cardigan: Cardigans can be a little boring, but this one proves itself special through lots of attention to detail – the buttoned loops at the shoulder and utilitarian pockets and belt are wonderful touches. The charcoal grey color can be worn with nearly anything during the colder months, and it tones down some of the sparkle when combined with sequins for daytime. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $795.

Diane Von Furstenberg Paragan Sequin T-Shirt: Daytime sequins are set to be big again for fall, and combining their shine with the simple, casual familiarity of a basic white tee makes them easy to incorporate in pre-cocktail hour outfits. This shirt matches the glamour level of leopard print while still remaining appropriate for casual environments. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $157.

Joe’s Jeans Chelsea Skinny Jeans: You can substitute your own favorite skinnies here, but if you’re still looking for a wear-all-the-time pair of your own, try these. The ultra dark wash hides figure flaws while ensuring that the look stays clean and tailored. Buy through ShopBop for $159.

Michael Kors Ceramic Chronograph Watch: Yeah, I admit it – I’m still not over white watches. When you have a daytime outfit that uses sequins, jewelry is best kept at a minimum, and the graphic white of this watch will stand out nicely again fall’s long, dark sleeves. Plus, it’s a heck of a lot cheaper than a Chanel J12 if you want to hop on the bandwagon a little late. Buy through Saks for $450.

Yves Saint Laurent Suede Tribute Sandals: With lots of textures going on in this outfit, these sandals are all of the bright color that you need. Plus, high heels make your legs look a mile long when combined with skinny jeans. And just look at ‘em, they’re gorgeous. These shoes are the easy part. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $995.

Dressy

Acne Lou Lou Satin Dress: I am in deep, inconvenient, all-encompassing love with this dress. This particular variety of magenta makes nearly everyone’s skin look radiant, and the bold bow belt is a brilliant, simple addition. The volume of the sleeves is like the cherry on top – wear this all fall and winter with black tights and statement shoes. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $300.

Miu Miu Glitter Platforms: Of course, if I had my way, the statement shoes that you’d choose would be these shiny, fantastic sandals. Just because they’re open-toe doesn’t mean they can’t be worn with tights, and a black background will make the gunmetal glitter all the more special. Since there’s no room in this outfit for additional bright colors or patterns, the shine makes sure that these shoes are still interesting. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $416.

Proenza Schouler Cable Cuff: This bracelet could go with nearly anything, but the modern, almost industrial lines make sure that the outfit doesn’t get too twee. You could pair it with either outfit, if you’d prefer not to wear a watch. $725, more info via ProenzaShouler.com.

Madewell Dangly Rhinestone Earrings: Costume jewelry with clear stones is a trend now, which is convenient since it goes with almost anything but doesn’t take up too much visual space. The vibrant color of the dress and bold print of the bag are enough that this outfit doesn’t require earrings that make a big statement. Buy through ShopBop for $45.

Original post by Amanda Mull

Sweet mother of the work force! I think I’ve died and gone to heaven. I absolutely must get my hands on this Miu Miu bag. Ok, I am getting ahead of myself, so excuse me while I calm down for a quick second.

There, I’m better now.

Before I was a blogger, I was a part of the corporate world (well sort of). I remember living in DC, riding the metro (DC’s version of the subway) to work and noticing all of the bags both men and women carried to work. I didn’t have anything too fancy and never really went out of my way to find something fancy. However, I literally came to a complete stop when I came across this Miu Miu Deerskin Leather Tote – it is beyond fabulous.

Now, if you don’t find yourself waking up everyday and schlepping to an office, fear not, this bag can come in handy for several other occasions. More than anything, this bag exudes luxury. Black deerskin leather is adorned with gold-tone hardware. There is a fold-over flap at the front of the bag, twist-lock fastening and stud and buckle embellishments along the sides. Open this fabulous bag and you will find taupe suede lining. This bag is elegant, versatile and timeless. In typical Miu-Miu fashion you will have to shell out a pretty penny for it, but it is worth it. I don’t know about you, but I’m in love. Buy through Net-a-Porter for $1650.

Original post by Shannon Mahoney

Last night I asked our Twitter followers what bag or designer they would like to see us feature. Twitter user Fashion_Hawk suggested this Miu Miu Clutch. This was easy to say yes to, because I already eyed this clutch and already planned on writing about it.

The Miu Miu Bird Suede and Python Clutch is a welcomed surprise from Miu Miu and designer purses in general. We continue to see the same designs over and over. And for a site that reviews bags all day long, it takes additional measures to grab our attention, be it good or bad. In the case of this Miu Miu bag, I say it is good.

The clutch alternates strips of black python and pink suede with a python pink and black bird embellishment on the front. The bird accent breaks up the stripes and gives a whimsical touch. It is the shape of the bird that they use that I adore, long, lean and fashionable. The fold over top has scalloped trim which adds another touch that is greatly appreciated.

What I love is that Miu Miu thought out each aspect of this bag. And with the thought process the bag ends up standing apart from the rest. In a saturated handbag market you either have to have a classic bag that appeals to everyone or find another way to grab a buyers attention. This clutch was able to grab my attention, make me do a double take, and got me clicking to look at detailed shots. That is precisely how you engage someone, so props to Miu Miu for this clutch.

The clutch is large, considerably oversized, and offers interior compartments and an optional braided rope shoulder strap. Having an optional shoulder strap is always helpful, especially with the long shoulder drop which makes this a great evening bag but still leaves options for it as a day bag. Bravo Miu Miu! Buy through Net A Porter for $1,495.

Original post by Megs Mahoney Dusil

As I was checking my email this morning I came across an invite to my friend’s bachelorette party this summer. I love celebrating the step into marriage because, well, I guess you could say I have a tendency to be a hopeless romantic. As I continued to look at the invitation, one more thing jumped out at me – the party is going to be in NYC! So, I get to be a part of a great celebration AND it is going to be in a fabulous city… awesome!

My guess is that you know where my thought process went next – I need a new handbag for this occasion.

When I think NYC, I think glitz, glamor and night life. With this being said, you can see why I am currently drooling over the Miu Miu Zip Paillette Tote. In fact, I’ve had Miu Miu on the brain ever since Amanda covered the Miu Miu Oversized Sequined Clutch. So while these two bags are a bit different, they do remind me of one another a bit.

Today, this bag is the one I am focusing on. The silver/multicolor paillettes are clearly all over the bag. This being the case, the bag would be great for a night out on the town. Imagine walking through a restaurant and how the light will shine and shimmer off of this bag. Gorgeous! I also like that the hardware is golden and not silver. I feel like too many black bags are paired with silver hardware. And if you can predict me by now, you know that I would most likely take off the detachable shoulder strap and simply opt for the top handles. All in all this is a fantastic, feminine and glamorous bag. Buy through Bergdorf Goodman $1495.

Original post by Shannon Mahoney